This trip has been the most amazing experience of my life. We have seen the gorgeous beaches and sunsets that make you never want to leave. We have seen the slums that break your heart and make you want to do whatever you can to help. The favelas look so sad during the day, but at night with all of the lights, the favelas look almost beautiful. It seems that their poverty is masked at night just as their reality is masked by dreams of opportunity. We have met the most amazing people who have helped us to understand the Brazilian culture.
We have interacted with so many children who see us as celebrities always asking for our autographs and getting pictures with us. They are so eager to learn about American culture and touch our blonde hair and see our blue eyes. We have established a bond with them that I have never experienced with anyone else. There are a couple special kids that I will never forget. Like the shy little boy with the gorgeous eyes who stood off in a corner by himself just watching us the entire time we were there. When I finally made eye contact with him, he gave me the biggest smile I have ever seen, and gave me a hug that I will never forget.
I have never stood in front of anyone and given a testimony about my faith. Faith has always been more of a personal thing for me. However, when I stood in front of those girls and talked to them about who God is in my life and saw how intently they listened, it helped me to realize how important my faith is. The experience of worshiping in a church that was in a different language completely was one that I will never forget. Even though we didn’t understand the words, I think that helped me to get more out of the service. Listening to the music and literally everyone in the church singing showed how important faith and religion is for these people. It is these experiences that have made this trip as fulfilling as it has been for me.
